The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Technical Sergeant Sheldon Thompson (ASN: 33111036), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 319th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 9 November 1944 in France. On that date, Technical Sergeant Thompson, while leading his light machine gun section in support of a rifle company near Braincourt, France, observed an enemy machine gun crew approaching. Disregarding his own safety and of his own volition, Technical Sergeant Thompson attacked and destroyed the weapon and crew by the use of hand grenades. Throughout the assault, although wounded several times by shell fragments, he continued in advance of his machine gun section in order to locate targets, and by his example inspired his men to help immeasurably in the accomplishment of the company mission. The bravery, leadership, and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant Thompson were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.